August 27, 2025 | Dubai, UAE: Recent data from UNESCO reveals a remarkable milestone: 61 per cent of UAE STEM graduates are Emirati women in STEM. This surge in female participation across science, technology, engineering, and mathematics is not only a huge leap compared to previous years but also well above regional and global averages. The UAE’s dedication to empowering women in these vital fields is paying off in a big way.

Government Initiatives That Make a Difference

A key driver behind this impressive progress is the National Policy for Empowerment of Emirati Women 2023–2031, which has laid the groundwork for equitable opportunities in STEM education. Thanks to this proactive approach, Emirati women now enjoy increased access to scholarships, cutting-edge research grants, and mentorship opportunities that pair them with experienced professionals in science and technology. These resources don’t just open doors; instead, they help women confidently step through them and thrive.

What stands out is the partnership between educational institutions and industries. Universities have teamed up with major companies to offer hands-on experience through labs, internships, and research projects tailored to real-world demands. This practical exposure has been a game-changer, boosting enrollment and graduation rates among Emirati women pursuing STEM degrees.

Amal Al Teneiji, Strategic Planning & Excellence Director at the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council, sums it up well: “National initiatives are creating clear career paths for Emirati women in STEM, from AI labs to biomedical research centres. By pairing education with practical experience, we’re preparing graduates to truly excel.”

The Private Sector’s Commitment Through SDG 5 Pledge

The story doesn’t end with education. The UAE Gender Balance Council’s SDG 5 Pledge, launched in 2020, plays an essential role in advancing women’s careers post-graduation. With 71 private-sector companies signed on, the pledge commits to elevating female representation in leadership roles to 30 per cent by 2025 and 2028.

Participating companies are adopting inclusive hiring practices, offering flexible work options, and providing leadership programs tailored to high-potential women. The pledge platform tracks key metrics like retention rates, promotions, and pay equity, ensuring transparency and accountability. Recent reports show a strong upward trend in recruiting and promoting Emirati women in STEM fields, proving that commitment leads to measurable impact.

Nafis Programme: Empowering Women on the Ground

The Nafis programme, overseen by the Emirates Talent Competitiveness Council, is another vital piece of the puzzle. It connects Emirati women in STEM with paid internships, professional training, and mentorships within both public and private sectors.

In 2025 alone, female participation in Nafis climbed to 73.1 percent, up from 69.7 percent in 2022. Women beneficiaries work across diverse fields including construction, wholesale, retail, and administrative services, showcasing the broad spectrum of opportunities opening up beyond traditional STEM roles.

Feedback from Nafis participants highlights the programme’s transformative effects—not just skill-building but confidence, networking, and career longevity. Most women supported by Nafis stay in high-growth sectors beyond their first year, signaling strong retention and growth potential.

Shifting Culture and Inspiring the Next Generation

Beyond statistics and programmes, the rise of Emirati women in STEM is changing hearts and minds. Public campaigns spotlight female scientists and technologists as relatable role models. Schools report higher girls’ participation in STEM activities, coding workshops, and competitions.

These cultural shifts create an encouraging environment where STEM is increasingly seen as an exciting and rewarding path for young women. The journey continues with plans to expand mentorship networks, foster international collaborations, and celebrate champions of gender equality through annual SDG 5 Pledge Awards.

As the UAE pushes toward its Vision 2031 ambitions, the leadership of Emirati women in STEM will be essential—not only as innovators and researchers but as the driving force shaping the country’s future as a knowledge economy powerhouse. The trail has been blazed; it’s time to continue forging new frontiers.

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